Zadar: Island Hopping Tour Swim and Snorkel with Drinks

Zadar: Island Hopping Tour Swim and Snorkel with Drinks

Imagine zipping along the Croatian coast, stopping at picture-perfect islands, and slipping into crystal-clear waters—all while enjoying a chilled drink in hand. That’s exactly what this Zadar Island Hopping Tour promises. With a choice between a speedy, thrill-inducing speedboat and a more relaxed traditional Dalmatian wooden boat, this tour caters to both adventure lovers and those seeking serenity.

What we love most about this experience is how well it balances fun, relaxation, and authentic scenery, giving you a taste of the true Dalmatian coast away from the crowds. Plus, the inclusion of local guides and small group sizes makes it feel personal and intimate. The potential downside? The tour duration is limited to four hours, which is great for a quick escape but might leave some wishing for a little more time on each island. Overall, it’s a great pick for travelers who want a lively, scenic day out with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun.

If you’re after a flexible, well-organized trip that combines the thrill of speed with the laid-back charm of Dalmatian islands, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Perfect for those visiting Zadar who want an active day on the water without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Two boat options cater to different moods—speedy thrills or relaxed cruising
• Multiple island stops with swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing opportunities
• Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized attention
• Drinks included, with two Aperol Spritz on the speedboat and wine on the traditional boat
• Authentic local guides offer insights and hidden spots
• Flexible itinerary and plenty of time to enjoy each stop

What to Expect from the Zadar Island Hopping Tour

This four-hour adventure showcases the stunning beauty of the Croatian coast, blending a lively boat ride with memorable stops on three islands. From the start, you’ll feel the excitement of either the speedboat, which offers a quick, adrenaline-filled ride, or the classic Dalmatian wooden boat, perfect for a leisurely, scenic experience. Both options begin at Zadar Harbour, where your friendly skipper will greet you and briefly explain the plan.

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour has a flexible, slightly spontaneous flow, designed to give you the best experience based on weather and group preferences. You’ll start with either a 25-minute ride on the speedboat or a more relaxed cruise on the traditional boat. The first stop is a “hidden gem”—a quiet bay ideal for swimming and snorkeling. According to reviews, this spot features crystal-clear waters and provides excellent gear, making it easy to see marine life or just enjoy floating in the sun.

A popular review from Ioana Andreea from Italy mentions, “We loved this activity! The boat captain was nice and we had the chance to swim, jump in from the boat, and do some snorkeling.” While some comment that marine life might not be abundant at every stop, the opportunity to explore underwater remains a highlight.

Next, the tour heads to a “secret stop”—a more scenic area with opportunities for sightseeing, walking, or simply relaxing. The boat will linger here for about an hour, giving travelers time to explore or unwind. Many reviewers appreciated this break, noting the beautiful scenic views and peaceful atmosphere.

Then comes a second secret stop, often in a charming small village or an island harbor, where you might find street food, shopping, or additional swimming. Fern highlights that “the views from the boat were beautiful,” and several travelers enjoyed extra time exploring local spots or relaxing on beaches.

The final part of the tour is a quick 15-minute cruise back to Zadar, with some stops allowing for more swimming or snorkeling if time permits. The whole route is designed for a balanced experience—enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

The Vibe Onboard

The tour’s atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, boosted by onboard music, good vibes, and the presence of a friendly guide who shares stories about the islands. Reviewers frequently mention the small group size, which creates a cozy, almost private feel, especially when compared to larger cruise-style trips.

For those on the speedboat, the thrill of racing between islands provides a sense of adventure, and the included drinks—two Aperol Spritz per person—add a touch of leisure. The traditional boat offers a slower, more picturesque cruise with two glasses of wine, often enjoyed atop the deck while taking in the views or catching a sunset.

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The Islands and Stops in Detail

Each island offers something different, though all are marked by their beauty and tranquility.

The first stop, often called a “hidden gem,” is praised for its crystal waters and the chance to snorkel amidst rocky formations. Many reviews mention the excellent snorkeling equipment provided. “The swim spots are perfect for floating and spotting fish,” says Sophia from the UK, emphasizing how the clear water makes the experience memorable.

The second stop tends to be a small island or bay with a quaint village vibe, stone houses, and a peaceful beach. Viktoria from Bulgaria appreciated that “the stops were nice and interesting to explore,” suggesting you’ll get a glimpse of real local life and scenery, away from tourist crowds.

The last stop sometimes features a local street food scene or a small harbor where you can stretch your legs and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Fern mentions that “the views from the boat were beautiful,” and some travelers enjoy walking around or trying local snacks.

Drinks, Snacks, and Local Flavor

One of the tour’s standout features is the inclusion of refreshing drinks—two Aperol Spritz on the speedboat and two glasses of wine on the traditional boat. Many reviews highlight how these drinks, served while relaxing on deck, enhance the experience. It’s a simple touch, but it adds to the casual, vacation vibe.

There’s also unlimited water available onboard, helping you stay refreshed during the warm Croatian summer days. Some travelers note that there’s no onboard toilet, so plan accordingly, but that’s typical for boats of this size.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts around four hours, making it perfect for a half-day outing. The small group size—limited to 14 participants—means you’ll get more personalized attention and plenty of time to ask questions or relax.

The cost, at approximately $28 per person, represents good value, considering the drinks, snorkeling gear, and guided experience included. It’s especially appealing for budget-conscious travelers wanting a comprehensive, fun-filled day.

Meeting points vary based on the option you choose, so check your booking details. The tour includes docking fees (approximately 10 EUR per adult), so bring some cash to cover those.

What to Bring

We recommend packing sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes. A dry bag for valuables is advisable, especially since some reviews mention getting splashed. Also, remember cash for the docking fee and any souvenirs.

Important Considerations

• No toilet facilities are available onboard
• Pets are not allowed
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year
• The activity is available in both English and Croatian

Authentic Experiences and Honest Opinions from Travelers

The reviews overwhelmingly highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are, often mentioning their efforts to show hidden spots and provide local insights. Several travelers mention the dog Vicky, which adds a warm, personal touch, making the experience feel even more genuine.

Many reviews praise the value for money, with comments like “great price for what you get” and “a perfect half-day adventure.” The mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty hits a sweet spot for most travelers.

A few minor criticisms include wishing for more time on some stops, particularly the last island, or minor confusion about where to wait at the meeting point. Though, the consensus is extremely positive.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip best suits travelers looking for a fun, active outing that combines scenic beauty with a social, lively atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want a small-group experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy local drinks. It also appeals to budget travelers who want a lot of value in a short time.

If you’re after luxurious, long, or highly structured tours, this might not be the right fit. But if you want a personal, authentic way to explore the islands outside the crowds, this tour should be on your list.

FAQs

Q: How long is the tour?
A: The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including boat rides, stops, swimming, and snorkeling.

Q: Is transportation to the meeting point included?
A: No, transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Q: What is included in the price?
A: The tour price covers the boat trip, guide, skipper, snorkeling equipment, safety gear, and drinks—Aperol Spritz or wine, plus unlimited water.

Q: Are there any additional costs?
A: Yes, docking fees are about 10 EUR per adult, payable in cash before the tour starts.

Q: Is there a toilet on board?
A: No, there isn’t a toilet onboard, so plan for that if needed.

Q: Can I bring my pets?
A: Pets are not allowed on this tour.

Final Thoughts

This Zadar Island Hopping Tour offers a lively, scenic escape into Croatia’s beautiful waters, ideal for travelers craving a blend of excitement and relaxation. The small group setting and local guides make it more personal than large cruise options, while the inclusion of drinks and snorkeling gear adds real value.

While the four-hour duration might leave some wishing for more time to explore, it’s perfect as a half-day adventure. Whether you choose the high-speed thrill or the gentle cruise, you’ll come away with stunning photos, new friends, and memories of crystal-clear waters.

Ultimately, it’s a great choice for those wanting an authentic, fun-filled day that captures the essence of Dalmatian coastal life—without breaking the bank or losing sight of the local charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: